Recently I decided to begin running again, considering my physical condition as well as cardiovascular health (read : heart disease in the family, I’m approaching 30). So, as advised in other threads, I looked up the Cool Runnings Couch potato to 5k plan, and began. The first week was uneventful, I was just finding paces and getting used to a treadmill. The second week is where my issue lies, though.
Generally, the first 90 second run and 2 minute walk go fine. The second one, my left leg begins to burn, as in the muscle is feeling fatigued already (front of the leg muscle…flexor? The opposite of your calf). This continues, and makes the rest of the run more difficult. I can keep up the pace fine, my right leg is fine, it’s just this muscle on my left that gets tight. The person I spoke to here in the gym thought it might be shin splints, but i’ve had those before, and let me tell you I wouldn’t continue running if my leg felt like that. Its just a general tightness / burn in that muscle that feels uncomfortable. What I’m looking for is some kind of excercise / stretch to help alleviate this (FTR : I do stretch before and after each run). So, help please?
Standard disclaimer : If anyone feels this advice must be given by a trained professional, please say so and I will request this thread is closed.